TREDC Welcomes New Civil Engineer
TREDC recently welcomed Matt Willbanks as its new Civil Engineer, adding more than two decades of engineering, construction and infrastructure experience to the TREDC team.
Matt earned his Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering from California State University Fresno in 2001 and became a licensed Professional Engineer in 2004. Throughout his career, he has served as a field engineer, project engineer, design engineer, and engineer of record on a wide range of public, private and Tribal projects. His experience includes water and wastewater treatment facilities for several Tribal casinos, including work associated with the original Eagle Mountain Casino, the Tejon Hard Rock Casino and Acorn Ridge Casino, as well as major municipal treatment projects throughout California.
At TREDC, Matt’s expertise will directly support the organization’s mission to develop sustainable projects, strengthen Tribal enterprises and create long-term economic opportunities for the Tule River Tribe.
One of his primary responsibilities will be helping advance the Tipton Biochar Facility, where he will assist with completing the planning phase, preparing and overseeing design, and supporting construction of the facility. The project represents the type of forward-looking development TREDC continues to pursue—combining innovation, environmental benefits and new economic opportunities.
Matt will also provide engineering support for existing TREDC enterprises, including infrastructure improvements at Eagle Feather Trading Post in Avenal, where his background in remote water and wastewater systems can help improve reliability and extend the life of critical facilities.
“I am looking forward to applying my abilities and experience to develop, design and build projects that will provide investment and income to the Tule River Tribe,” Matt said.
Originally from Temecula, Matt now lives in Visalia. Outside of work, he enjoys cooking, trout fishing, Formula 1 and MotoGP racing, and spending time with his family.
“As TREDC continues to expand its businesses and pursue new development opportunities, Matt’s technical experience will be an important asset in helping turn ideas into well-planned, sustainable projects that support the Tribe’s long-term economic future,” said CEO Thomas E. Wilbur.
